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Tag Archives: wreath workshops

It is the day before my 8th Annual Holiday Workshop where we make Kissing Balls, Wreaths, Candy Cane Wreaths, Candle Centerpieces, Horse Profile Wreaths, and more!

This year, for some reason, it seems the “getting ready” list was a longer process than ever.

How can this be after 8 years doing this workshop?

I should have this down pat but there are always alterations and things which come up that are unexpected.

For example, one of the mechanics I use for this workshop was in short supply this year – rather unusual because this never happened before.

It is a long story – but I got them specially delivered from Rudolph just in time – they are all set.

And my truck had a problem right when I needed it – it got fixed though. Thankfully.

Then my iPhone died. Yup – which I rely on for texting of custom orders for holiday wreaths and kissing balls, and notifying my attendees of all.

Thus, those little nuisances happened and were dealt with, one at a time. No worries in the end.

I guess another thing which may have made it felt longer to get ready was that I had my first pop up shop from spring to fall at a bookstore, then I also sold out workshops on making Succulent Topped Pumpkins and Terrarium Bowls at another venue this year. It seemed I was still cleaning up supplies from those events just yesterday and I needed to be focused on this workshop! Time moves quickly, as I always say.

Or maybe it feels longer to setup because, ah, I’m getting older. The gray hairs are showing today – but you know what? That is partly because I literally start turning into Mrs. KB Claus. That includes the weight gain, yup, I blame it on that!

But, I am, almost, yes, almost done setting up.

There is a tremendous amount of steps to get this big workshop happening, followed by a 2nd workshop group a few days later, and custom orders in between for hand-made kissing balls and wreaths by me by order.

But let me be clear – it is ALL worth it – every minute. This is MY Christmas treat. I love being surrounded by the smell of freshly cut greens, festive attendees, and decorations.

As I set up my holiday workshop space, I can hear the laughs, giggles, and festive cheer from the years prior – I’m not kidding. Can a space maintain that magical spirit? I think it can.

But, you know what?

This day isn’t just for the jolly – To be honest, some people go thru hard times this time of year, whether it is a loss of a relative, a personal struggle from life’s general unexpected happenings, or feeling a little of the holiday blues – it happens to some of us – however, we push thru it – and events, like tomorrow’s big holiday workshop is a way to escape, make your own beautiful holiday and meaningful creations, and boost the start up of the month. It can make the holiday blues completely go away – at least for one day.

Kissing Balls for the Holidays

The term ‘KB’ is short for Kissing Balls which are balls made with fresh evergreens every year just in time for the holiday season. Kissing balls are beautiful when hanging outside on your wrap-around porch, by your entrance, doorway, or even inside the home. They are fun to make and last all the way into February when hung outside – the birds enjoy them too. They will pop by to perch on them which is lovely, especially when snow is clinging onto your freshly made beautiful Kissing Ball.

A Large Kissing Ball

Workshop Every December

Every December, Container Crazy CT offers an early Kissing Ball and Wreath Making Holiday workshop where attendees make large sized Kissing Balls to take home. In addition to the Kissing Balls, you may elect to make a round or square wreath, long styled candle centerpiece, or cross shaped wreath.

In 2016 – We hope to offer the horse head profile shaped wreath option too. Often, Cathy T comes up with a new idea to make every season. To register for the workshop, visit www.WORKSHOPSCT.com. Look for the Eventbrite links to the right side of the site, or mail payment to confirm your pre-registration.

10 Reasons Why Making Your Own is Best

Fresh Evergreens – fresh, fresh, fresh – not old, old, old

Mechanics included – You cannot find the Styrofoam ball used for less than $6 retail and wreath frames are costly too – all is included for your one item of choice.

Mix of Evergreens – You select the ones you want in your creation – up to 14 varieties of very beautiful evergreens.

Fun Gathering – The socializing factor, time for you with the ladies, food, festivities!

Holiday Beverages included – A special themed drink to enjoy, and in 2016 – Pizza will be included. Attendees also contribute light apps as desired.

No Cleanup – Cathy T does ALL the setup and cleanup – You have ALL the fun

Early Décor – You put up your decoration to enjoy all month instead of waiting

No Risk – Cathy T takes all the risk for you – You just show up and enjoy

Originality – It is made by you with your special touches and you learn all the special tips and techniques. Every year, you will learn something new.

A floral type item is included every year – last year it was variegated Holly and seeded Eucalyptus – what will it be in 2016? You have to register to find out!

Pre-Register Now!

This workshop fills up very quickly every year, so signing up early is helpful to pre-register to hold your seat. To “confirm” your seat, payment is due in advance. We currently have 21 people pre-registered as of this posting – so don’t wait. Later, there is a wait-list if you missed this year’s chance, and note that workshop appointments the week of December 5th are available for one-on-one style sessions. For a quieter option, we offer a Weekday Workshop on December 7th, 2016 at 5:30 pm.

Location:

Location of the workshops is the East Windsor section of Broad Brook, Connecticut.

Workshop Fee 2016:

In 2016, the price is one size fits all of $40 pp for any one item you elect to make. It includes tax and many benefits – so don’t miss out – We make “quality” items at larger than normal sizes you would find in retail environments. You may submit payment via mail or via Eventbrite on our WorkshopsCT.com site.

Cancellation Policy:

Any cancellations one week before the workshop dates are non-refundable since we work with pre-ordered live greens. Cancellations have special policies – You may elect to send an alternate the day of, or use the fee towards another workshop within one year of the workshop date. See WORKSHOPSCT.com for the details.

Cathy T of Container Crazy CT and Cathy T’s Landscape Design takes custom orders for wreaths, candle centerpieces, kissing balls all month in December. See the following links for details under Holidays. Also, batches of greens may be picked up for purchase if you wish to make something special at home, such as a container filled with a mix of evergreens and your own special touches. Batch pick-ups begin the week of December 5th.